It’s Time to Talk: Addressing Mental Health in the Construction Industry

  • July 31, 2024
  • Posted by: construction
  • Category: Resume News
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Addressing Mental Health in the Construction Industry

Mental health is a pressing concern in our society, particularly within the construction industry. Research reveals that those in construction are at a significantly higher risk of mental health issues than the general population. The statistics are alarming, with construction workers having a suicide rate twice that of other professions, resulting in a tragic loss every two days.

It’s evident that a significant shift in our approach is necessary to address this issue.

Thanks to the ABC, the Herald Sun , Foremind and the Black Dog Institute,  we explore the issue of mental health in construction and how it can be addressed.

Unfortunately, mental health issues in the construction industry are only getting worse.

Suicide prevention group, Mates In Construction, has seen a dramatic increase in calls over the last year. In recent times, various factors have exacerbated the issue, including high interest rates, cost of living pressures and a labour shortage.

According to the Black Dog Institute, 1 in 4 Australian construction workers has symptoms of anxiety and depression.

However, mental health in construction has long been a significant issue. Various factors could be responsible for this.  Many construction workers are forced to work long hours at the expense of work-life balance. Some construction workers report working between 60 and 100 hours a week.  Advocates say that addressing work-life balance will go a long way to improving the mental health of those in the construction industry.

Construction work is also often dangerous in nature. A rise in insolvencies in the building industry has also exacerbated the issue.

Attitudes of resilience, pride, and risk-taking are commonplace in the construction industry. Many tradies feel compelled to work even when they are injured or exhausted. Additionally, older workers feel like they must continue working in physically demanding jobs to make ends meet.

Bullying and intimidation are commonplace in the construction industry. This leads to increased stress and anxiety and reduced job satisfaction.

The male-dominated nature of the industry has also meant that people have often been silent when experiencing issues, with mental health often viewed as a stigma. 70% of construction workers in Australia say they don’t feel comfortable discussing mental health issues with their colleagues or supervisors. Many are concerned that being open about their mental health will affect their job security. As a result, 25% of construction workers who require help don’t access it.

A lack of awareness and reluctance to seek support have been identified as key barriers to improving mental health in the construction industry. Therefore, providing workers with information on mental health support is vital. Managers should be equipped with the tools to create mentally healthy workplaces. According to the Black Dog Institute, mental health training for managers is one of the most effective interventions to improve mental health in the construction industry. Mental health training provides managers with the tools to identify and mitigate risk factors for poor mental health.

There are positive signs with more workplaces introducing mental health policies.  In addition, mental health charities are working to improve mental health culture on building sites. For example, some organisations run mental health awareness sessions on building sites.

While progress is being made, more needs to be done to address the scourge of mental health in the construction industry.

If you or someone you know needs help, the following organisations can provide assistance.

sad construction worker with colleague

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